What is Advocacy?
Advocacy means having support from somebody who can help you express your views, understand your rights and make sure your voice is heard.
An advocate is independent of the NHS, local authorities and the police. They will not tell you what decisions to make. Instead, they will help you understand your options and communicate what is important to you.
Different types of advocacy support are available depending on your circumstances and where you live. Our advocacy leaflet explains the services available and how to access them.
What do IMHA and IMCA mean?
- IMHA stands for Independent Mental Health Advocacy
- IMCA stands for Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy
If you live in Derby City
For advocacy support in Derby City, contact Disability Direct Advocacy.
- Telephone: 01332 299449
- Email: advocacy@disabilitydirect.com
If you live in Derbyshire
Cloverleaf Advocacy provides independent advocacy services in Derbyshire.
- Telephone: 01924 454875
- Email: referrals@cloverleaf-advocacy.co.uk
Care Act Advocacy
Advocacy rights under the Care Act 2014. In April 2015 the Care Act became law. Under the Care Act 2014, local authorities must ensure people are involved in:
- assessments,
- reviews,
- care and support planning
- safeguarding enquiries and reviews.
If someone is likely to have substantial difficulty in being involved in these processes and does not have an appropriate person to support and represent them, the local authority has a duty to arrange independent advocacy support.
Non-statutory advocacy
Some people may be eligible for support from an advocate for other issues that are affecting their daily lives, such as debt, housing and accessing public services.
NHS Independent Complaints Advocacy
If you wish to make a complaint about an NHS funded service, either regarding your own treatment or that of a family member, child or carer then you can use the NHS Complaints Advocacy Service. This service is free and confidential and it can help you understand your rights, assist with complaints, applications and support people at meetings.
